What happens in your brain if you turn off your phone for 72 hours: an unexpected reset
The dependence on the mobile phone has sparked a debate about whether its excessive use can resemble an addiction. Now, a new study from the University of Heidelberg shows that restricting the smartphone for 72 hours not only reduces the desire to use it but also modifies neuronal activity in key regions of the brain.
The experiment: three days of partial disconnection
The study, published in [journal name], recruited 25 young people between 18 and 30 years old, regular users of smartphones. For three days, they were asked to limit the device only to basic functions: work, essential communication, and daily tasks.
Before and after the restriction period, questionnaires and [additional tests] were conducted. The results were clear: after 72 hours, the brains showed changes in areas related to reward, very similar to those observed in addictive processes.
Dopamine, serotonin, and the reward circuit
The research detected alterations in the activity of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are fundamental in motivation, mood, and addictive processes.
According to neurologist Alejandro Andersson, interviewed by Infobae, the mobile phone functions as a “portable casino” that constantly hyperactivates the dopaminergic circuits with each notification or message. Three days of pause are enough for the amygdala to reduce the stress response and improve concentration.
Digital addiction or problematic use?
The term “smartphone addiction” generates debate in the scientific community. Some prefer to talk about “problematic use” or “digital dependence” since the mobile phone is an essential tool. Still, the behavior shares mechanisms with other behavioral addictions: intermittent reinforcement, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability or anxiety when unable to connect.
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